Kohima, June 18 (MExN): The Angami Students’ Union (ASU) has expressed what it described as "profound outrage and unequivocal condemnation" over the alleged sexual assault of a 17-year-old minor by a 34-year-old church youth leader reportedly from Kohima village.
Terming the incident a "heinous act" and a grave violation of human rights, the Union stated that such behaviour represents a "devastating assault on the innocence of a minor" and said it cannot be tolerated under any circumstances.
The ASU maintained that the alleged act is "entirely foreign to our traditional values" and raised concern over what it described as the penetration of "corrosive vices" into Naga society, including within spaces of religious leadership. It stated that the church, which is "universally revered as a sanctuary of safety and trust," must not be compromised in any manner.
The union said it is "deeply disheartening that the perpetrator has instilled fear within the church," adding that such actions have compromised the integrity of leadership structures where people are expected to feel secure. It further stated that the incident has "inflicted deep trauma upon the victim" and shaken the faith of many within the community.
The ASU reiterated its zero-tolerance stance against exploitation, stating that it will not tolerate any act that "strips our youth of their dignity." It also described the alleged offence as a "betrayal of the highest order," particularly because it involves an environment regarded as spiritually safe.
While acknowledging that law enforcement authorities have arrested the accused, it urged for a "thorough, meticulous and exhaustive investigation" to ensure a watertight case so that the accused faces "befitting penalties under the law."
It also called upon administrative and judicial authorities to closely monitor such cases and implement "stringent deterrent measures" to prevent similar crimes in the future. The Union further stated that the rising incidence of such crimes must be "permanently halted and met with absolute accountability rather than administrative diplomacy."
The ASU extended its solidarity to the victim and her family, stating its commitment to supporting them in their pursuit of justice.
